In 2020, 114,000 tonnes of plastic packaging was thrown away at Christmas in the UK. This is equivalent to the weight of 120,000 elephants. Plus only 5% of Christmas cards are recycled. The rest end up in landfills or incinerators. Plastic is bad for the world because it is non-biodegradable (Plastic does not break down naturally, so it can last for hundreds or even thousands of years in the environment), toxic (plastic can release harmful chemicals into the environment, which can pollute water, soil, and air), entangles and kills wildlife (Animals can mistake plastic for food or become entangled in it, which can lead to injury or death) and contributes to climate change (The production of plastic requires fossil fuels, which are a major source of greenhouse gases).
With that in mind, for a more sustainable lifestyle, here are some recycled gift ideas:
- Reusable bags: These are a great way to reduce plastic pollution. There are many different types of reusable bags available, made from materials such as canvas, recycled plastic, and recycled cotton, instead of plastic bags. Reusable shopping bags are a top way to reduce your carbon footprint.
- Reusable Coffee cups: There are many coffee mugs made from recycled materials, such as ceramic, glass, and metal. These make great gifts for coffee lovers who want to reduce their waste and stop consuming single-use items.
- Reusable water bottles: Single-use plastics often end up in the ocean, wrecking the ecosystem. Water bottles can be used daily on commutes and for sport, so one of the best sustainable gifts you can give someone. Plastic bottles are created from fossil fuels (oil) and need considerable energy. Once they break down, they can release chemicals that can pollute water and soil.
- Stationery: There are many recycled stationery items available, such as notebooks, pens, and pencils. These make great gifts for students, professionals, and anyone who loves to write.
- Experiences: Experiences make a great gift, and they can also be zero waste. For example, you could give a gift certificate for a hike in a local park, a cooking class at a sustainable restaurant, or a weekend stay at a zero-waste hotel during the holiday season.
- Recycled book: There is nothing like a good book and why not get one second-hand and cheaper? It supports the circular economy and is a perfect way to unwind, guilt-free.
- Jewellery: There are many jewellery items made from recycled materials, such as metal, plastic, and glass. These make great gifts for people who love fashion and want to make a sustainable choice. The beautiful items can be a romantic & perfect eco-friendly gift.
- Home decor: There are many home decor items made from recycled materials, such as candles, coasters, and mirrors. These make great gifts for people who want to add a touch of sustainability to their home.
- Plants: Plants are a great way to add life and beauty to any home, and they can also help to improve air quality. There are many types of plants that are grown in recycled materials, such as pots and planters. For a plant lover who lives in a small flat, consider buying them an indoor plant.
- Gift certificates to sustainable businesses: These gift cards are a great way and easy way to let your best friend choose their own gift and support sustainable businesses simultaneously.
These are just a few ideas for recycled gifts. With a little creativity, you can find the perfect gift for anyone on your list that is both thoughtful and sustainable. If you have an eco-friendly gift idea, please share.
Here are some additional tips for choosing recycled gifts:
- Look for gifts that are made from recycled materials that are not harmful to the environment.
- Choose gifts that are made by sustainable businesses that are fair trade & practice ethical labour and environmental practices.
- Consider your friends or family’s interests and needs when choosing a recycled gift.
- Don’t forget to wrap the gift in recycled materials, or natural materials or consider no wrapping at all.
- Avoid using plastic products. I.e. Pick reusable straws instead of plastic ones, a simple change that makes a difference.
- Pick sustainable materials that can be reused or have natural fibres that degrade in the soil via a compost bin.
By choosing recycled gifts, you can help to reduce waste, support sustainable businesses, and make a difference for the planet. Check out this guide on ethical shopping.
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